Safari Faq
Popular questions about Tanzania Safari
How many days does a Safari take?
To really soak in Tanzania’s safari wonders like Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, and Tarangire National Park, aim for a 5-7 day trip. This will give you enough time to explore the northern circuit and see the Big Five and other key animals. For those who can stay longer, there are incredible safari journeys lasting 20+ days!
If you’re short on time, a quick safari covering Arusha and either Tarangire or Lake Manyara National Park can be done in 1-2 days. It’s a great snapshot of Tanzania’s wildlife. And, if you’re keen on the Serengeti but pressed for time, flying directly there is a good option.
What is the best time to visit Tanzania?
Choosing the right time for a safari in Tanzania really depends on your preferences. The dry season, spanning June to October and January to March, are ideal for wildlife spotting as animals gather around water sources. You’ll enjoy sunny days, but expect crowds, especially during the Great Migration and the birthing seasons of zebras and wildebeests.
On the other hand, the rainy season, in April-May and November-December, offers a lush landscape with fewer visitors and potential discounts at lodges. Transition periods like late March, early June, late October, and November are perfect for a more peaceful experience, balancing good weather with fewer tourists.
What is the Great Wildebeest Migration?
The Great Wildebeest Migration is a mesmerizing natural spectacle for wildlife lovers, featuring over a million animals traversing the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. Starting with calving in the southern Serengeti, near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, they wind through the Serengeti towards Kenya’s Masai Mara, returning by year’s end. One of the most dramatic parts of this migration is the Mara River crossing. Here, the migration herds face the challenging currents and hungry predators lurking in the waters. Watching thousands of these animals navigate the Mara river is a highlight for many travelers.
What is the best time to see the Great Wildebeest Migration?
The Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti offers year-round drama, peaking with the wildebeest calving season in February-March and dramatic river crossing in May-August, before moving to Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve from August to October.
What is the best way to get to Tanzania?
What to wear on a safari in Tanzania?
For a safari, choose shirts and pants in neutral colors like khaki or gray to blend in and hide dust. Avoid white, blue, and camouflage clothing. Blue attracts tsetse flies and camouflage is restricted for civilians. Dresses are great for lodges but pants are practical for drives. Remember sun protection: a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. For footwear, sandals are fine for lodges, but closed shoes are better for drives. Pack a warm jacket for chilly mornings and evenings, especially in high-altitude areas. Learn more in this article.
Which country is better for a safari, Kenya or Tanzania?
Two countries in East Africa provide remarkable safari experiences: Kenya & Tanzania. However, Tanzania frequently stands out. Many prefer it for its less crowded parks and abundant wildlife, which includes unique animal sightings. The extended Great Migration period in the Serengeti National Park is also a major attraction. Additionally, the country offers the opportunity to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain.
